5December 2025
Winter in South Jersey brings a mix of heavy snow, freezing rain, and rapid temperature drops. These conditions put immense stress on your home’s exterior. Many homeowners in towns like Cherry Hill, Deptford, and Moorestown don’t notice damage until water starts dripping through the ceiling.
By knowing the early signs of winter roof damage, you can save thousands in repairs. As your local GAF-certified NJ roofing contractor, T.A. Hughes III Roofing is here to help you spot the trouble before it starts.
The “South Jersey Freeze-Thaw”: Why It’s Dangerous
It isn’t always the amount of snow that hurts New Jersey roofs; often, it is the temperature change. In our area, we frequently see days where it freezes at night but thaws during the afternoon.
This cycle causes Thermal Shock. Here is how it works:
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Water from melted snow seeps into tiny cracks in your shingles or flashing.
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When the sun goes down, that water freezes and turns into ice.
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Ice expands, pushing the crack open wider.
Over time, this breaks shingles apart and ruins the seals around your chimney or vents.
Top 3 Winter Threats to Your Roof
1. Ice Dams: The Silent Leak Causer
An ice dam is a ridge of ice that forms at the edge of your roof. It stops melting snow (water) from draining off.
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Why it happens: If your attic insulation is poor, heat escapes your house and warms the roof. This melts the snow, which runs down to the cold eaves and freezes.
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The Damage: The water backs up behind the dam and gets forced under your shingles. This causes leaks inside your walls.
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The Fix: You may need to upgrade your attic ventilation systems to keep the roof temperature consistent.
2. Heavy Snow Loads
Wet, heavy snow can weigh a lot. This creates stress on older roof structures, especially on flat roofs or low-slope porches commonly found on older Camden County homes. If you hear creaking sounds or notice doors sticking inside the house after a storm, your roof might be under too much weight.
3. Frozen and Clogged Gutters
Did you clean your gutters this fall? If not, those wet leaves are now a solid block of ice. This heavyweight can pull the gutters right off your fascia board. This leaves your home vulnerable to water damage when the spring rain arrives.
Visual Checklist: Signs of Damage You Can See From the Ground
You do not need to be an expert to spot trouble. Use this checklist to inspect your home from the driveway.
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Icicles: Small icicles are normal. However, large, heavy icicles hanging from gutters usually mean you have trapped water and ice dams.
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Granules in Downspouts: Winter storms can strip the protective sand-like coating off aging shingles. Look for these granules at the bottom of your downspouts.
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Sagging Roofline: A visible dip in the roof line is a serious warning sign. It requires immediate professional attention.
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Interior Water Spots: Check your ceilings and attic for dark rings or wet insulation. This is proof that the winter weather has already breached your roof.
What To Do If You Find Damage
If you see any of the signs above, do not climb on your roof. Icy roofs are slippery and dangerous.
Instead, take these steps:
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Safety First: If water is leaking inside, place buckets to catch the drip and move furniture away from the area.
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Call a Professional: Contact a certified roofer who has the safety gear to inspect the roof properly.
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Schedule Repairs: Do not wait until spring. Small leaks become big problems very quickly.
We provide emergency roof repair in South Jersey to secure your home quickly and prevent further damage.
Why Choose T.A. Hughes III Roofing?
Your roof is your home’s main defense against the elements. You need a partner you can trust.
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GAF Certified: We are factory-certified to install the best roofing systems in the industry.
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Local Experience: We aren’t storm chasers. We are a family-owned business based in Logan Township, serving our neighbors for years.
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Honest Advice: We help you decide if a repair is enough or if it is time for a roof replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can you replace a roof in the winter in NJ? A: Yes, professional roofers can install roofs in winter. We use special techniques and adhesives to ensure shingles seal properly even in cold weather.
Q: Does homeowners insurance cover ice dam damage? A: Typically, yes. If the water causes interior damage, insurance often covers the repairs. However, the removal of the ice dam itself is often considered maintenance and may not be covered. Check your specific policy.
Q: How do I know if my attic is properly ventilated? A: If you have uneven snow melt on your roof or excessive icicles, your ventilation likely needs an upgrade. A balanced system keeps the attic cold in winter to prevent melting and refreezing.
Protect Your Home This Winter
Don’t let winter weather compromise your biggest investment. If you suspect winter roof damage or just want peace of mind, contact us today. We proudly serve homeowners across Burlington, Camden, and Gloucester Counties.